The child enjoyed watching the ____ dogs at the petting zoo. Which of the following words correctly completes the sentence?

The correct word that completes the sentence is "prairie." This term refers to a type of ecosystem characterized by vast grasslands, which can include various wildlife, including dogs such as prairie dogs. In the context of a petting zoo, the mention of "prairie dogs" makes sense, as these small, burrowing rodents are often included in such settings for educational and entertainment purposes.

Choosing "prairie" accurately conveys the intended meaning, as it is a recognized term associated with a specific type of environment that is also home to these animals. It exemplifies a clear understanding of both language and context that enhances the readability of the sentence. Other options do not align with this context: "prarie" is a common misspelling of "prairie," "prayer" is unrelated to the animals mentioned, and "prairy" is also a misspelling. Therefore, "prairie" is the proper choice.